1. In 1981, the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum opened in Northern Virginia. This museum showcases the history of aviation and space exploration, featuring famous artifacts such as the Wright Brothers' plane and the Apollo 11 command module.

2. In 1777, the Battle of Germantown took place during the Revolutionary War. British forces, led by General William Howe, clashed with American troops under the command of General George Washington. Though the Americans suffered heavy losses, they were able to temporarily halt the British advance toward Philadelphia.

3. On September 26, 1908, the Virginia State Fair opened in Richmond for the first time. This annual event features carnival rides, agricultural exhibits, and various competitions, and has become a beloved tradition in the state.

4. In 1957, the Little Rock Nine - a group of nine African American students - attempted to attend school at Little Rock Central High School in Arkansas. This event sparked nationwide controversy and debate over desegregation, and Virginia leaders such as Governor J. Lindsay Almond Jr. were closely involved in the ensuing legal and political battles.

5. On September 26, 2018, Hurricane Florence made landfall in North Carolina and caused widespread damage across Virginia and other states. Many communities in Virginia experienced flooding and power outages, and the storm caused billions of dollars in damage.